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Mechanisms of Synaptic Plasticity and Stability

We are presently investigating how sensory and learning experiences lead to changes of synaptic connectivity in the living mouse brain. Specifically, we are examining how stress hormones and fear conditioning modify dendritic spine plasticity in the mouse cortex. We have recently generated mice with a targeted gene insertion allowing for the expression of tamoxifen-inducible Cre recombinase in CX3CR1 expressing microglial cells. This transgenic mouse line provides a molecular handle for the in vivo manipulation of microglia including deletion. We hope to elucidate the role of microglia in synapse development, controlling neuronal damage and glial scar formation after traumatic brain injury, as well as regulating amyloid deposition and synaptic pathology in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease.